Former Del. Leo Wardrup has passed away

Travis Fain tfain@dailypress.comDaily Press

Former Del. Leo Wardrup, the Virginia Beach Republican who oversaw the House's transportation committee during a series of political battles over roads funding in the mid 2000's, has died, according to Speaker of the House William Howell.

He was 77.

"(My wife) Cessie and I were saddened to learn today that former Delegate Leo Wardrup passed away late last night," Howell said in a statement this morning. "Leo was dedicated public servant. He honorably served in the United States Navy and spent 16 years in the House of Delegates. He was a thoughtful leader and mentor who gave careful consideration to the issues, but fought for what he believed in with a vivacious and scrappy demeanor. We will miss Leo and send our thoughts and prayers to his wife, Gloria, and his family during this difficult time.